India Firmly Denies Role in Controversial Taliban Ban on Female Journalists

A recent press conference in Kabul, intended to highlight India's humanitarian aid to Afghanistan, descended into controversy when Afghanistan's acting education minister, Shaikh Maolavi Noorullah Munir, barred female journalists from attending. The incident quickly drew global attention, prompting India to issue a swift and unequivocal denial of any involvement in the contentious decision.

The press conference, held on a Monday morning, was set to detail India's latest consignment of earthquake relief aid to the Taliban-ruled nation.

However, the event took an unexpected turn when female reporters were reportedly turned away at the entrance by Taliban security personnel, igniting a fresh wave of concern over the regime's escalating restrictions on women's rights.

In response to circulating reports and implicit suggestions linking it to the ban, India's Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson, Arindam Bagchi, addressed the issue during a weekly media briefing.

"We are aware of reports regarding an incident at a press conference in Kabul. We categorically reject any suggestions linking us to the incident," Bagchi stated firmly. He emphasized that the decision to exclude female journalists was made entirely by the Taliban authorities, with India having no influence or role in the matter.

This incident comes amid ongoing international criticism of the Taliban's policies, which have systematically eroded the rights of Afghan women and girls since their takeover in August 2021.

From denying access to education beyond primary levels to restricting employment opportunities and limiting public presence, the Taliban's actions have drawn widespread condemnation from human rights organizations and governments worldwide.

India, while engaging in humanitarian efforts in Afghanistan, has consistently maintained that its aid is provided directly to the Afghan people and does not imply formal recognition of the Taliban regime.

The country has supplied critical assistance, including wheat, medicines, and earthquake relief, underscoring its commitment to the welfare of the Afghan populace despite the complex political landscape. The controversy at the press conference serves as a stark reminder of the challenges inherent in navigating humanitarian diplomacy in a region grappling with severe restrictions on fundamental freedoms.